Why Is an Offset Spatula?

An offset spatula allows you to spread everything from frosting to hummus to peanut butter in a smooth, even layer. What it's best known for is frosting and decorating cakes; creating fanciful swoops and swirls, or forming a perfectly smooth, flat surface ready to be decorated.

Do you need an offset spatula?

An offset spatula is ideal for tasks like spreading batter in a cake pan or frosting the top of a cake, when you need a little distance from the surface to prevent batter or icing from getting on your knuckles.

What makes a good offset spatula?

An offset spatula has a narrow, flexible metal blade with a rounded edge. The long blade with a rounded end makes it easy to spread the frosting evenly on a cake and along its sides. If the cake is sticking to the sides of the pan, you can use it to lift it from the sides.